Island Health has issued an urgent warning to people using illicit drugs, especially in their own homes, after seven overdose deaths in the last week. 4 of 7 deaths within last 72 hoursIsland Health's Chief Medical Health Officer, Dr. Richard Stanwick, said safe consumption services are ugently needed because of a rapid increase in overdose deaths. At least two people died after using drugs in their homes. He said it is not yet known if a new or stronger drug, such as carfentanil, is responsible for the sudden increase in overdose deaths. Maurine Karagianis, the New Democrat MLA for Esquimalt-Royal Roads, questioned why Vancouver Island was not included in the B.C.

Source: CBC News November 25, 2016 22:30 UTC